AI pivot: Trump loosens export rules, opening path for Gulf tech surge
Gulf states have been lobbying the Trump administration to loosen export restrictions on AI technology, although concerns have lingered among some within the current administration over security risks regarding China.
WASHINGTON — The Trump administration on Wednesday unveiled new plans to streamline exports of American-made artificial intelligence technology, continuing a reversal of Biden-era restrictions aimed at preventing China from acquiring US-made AI tech via third countries.
The move, signed into action by President Donald Trump via executive order, aims to consolidate the processes by which the US State and Commerce departments approve industry deals that would see foreign countries acquire US-made AI hardware and software.
The intent is to head off foreign countries' emerging dependence on AI technology developed by US adversaries, primarily China, according to the executive order signed by Trump on Wednesday.
The background: The latest move to ease AI exports was part of a broader 90-point “AI action plan” announced by the White House on Wednesday, which the president said would ensure the United States remains the world's dominant player in AI in the coming decades by removing "red tape and onerous regulation."
